“Our team dynamic was the best it has been since I was a freshman,” senior Melia Privett says when asked to describe this year’s volleyball season. With this dynamic and under the leadership of 5 seniors, the varsity team ended their season with 16-8 overall and 10-4 in the conference. Of course, this did not come without the highs and lows of a typical year.
A good team is much more than the skill of the players themselves but of the relationship that they have with each other.
“Our team is like a big family,” junior Addison Wilson says. “We all are super close and supportive of each other.”
It’s clear that the group was very close, creating a big advantage on the court in understanding each other’s strengths and weaknesses. This also helped the team grow as they felt comfortable giving each other constructive criticism and feedback, leaving many athletes on the team to agree that volleyball is as much a mental game as it is physical.
One must not forget that with the glory of winning comes the humility of losing. The team faced their own obstacles, whether that be injury or tough losses. However, they did their best to adapt to the situation. In a high-stakes game against West Forsyth, the team faced a challenge when a crucial player was injured on the court. Just like that, their player lineup was disrupted. This did not stop them; however, the team was able to regroup and make a valiant effort to win the game.
Some teams have their superstitions. Some have their traditions. The volleyball team has its huddle; before each home or away game, the team would form a circle, which is now a ritual. Accompanied by a pep talk from coach Amber Brandon, the players cross their hands right-over-left and say a group prayer. For good measure, the team spins out of their circle, ready for the game ahead.
This year’s season also had many favorite moments. In particular, the team enjoyed riding the bus.
“We always listen to music to get hyped up for the games or have the most random conversations that are filled with laughter,” Privett says. “Those bus ride memories will be ones that I cherish forever and will always miss.”
When it comes to season highlights, one game sticks out; Davie vs. East Forsyth. On none other than coach Brandon’s birthday, the team beat East Forsyth in a tough 4 sets.
The volleyball team represented Davie High School with pride and courage throughout this year’s season. They tackled obstacles with grace, and, whether on a bus or around the arms of their fellow teammates, created memories to last a lifetime.
